Legislative Update - The Democracy for the People Act

Dear Neighbors, 

Last week, we returned from our Easter and Passover Spring Recess and hit the ground running as we entered the final stretch of the legislative session. These next few weeks will be spent passing our budget proposals, negotiating with our Senate colleagues, and passing our final bills to fund our state for the next two years. 

In addition to our budget bills, there are also several important pieces of legislation still moving through the legislative process, and I’m happy to share we passed a crucial one off the House floor last week. The Democracy for the People Act, which I was proud to co-author, protects and strengthens the freedom to vote, amplifies the power of Minnesotans by reducing the influence of dark money and foreign-influence corporations in our politics, and ensures that our democracy is fair, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Minnesotans across the state. 

There are two distinct visions for our democracy. We can go down the path of MAGA Republicans, restricting voting rights, expelling members of the opposite party, and using sheer political power to blunt the voice of the people. Or we can strengthen and defend the right to vote and ensure that people are at the center of our elections. That's why I voted yes tonight on the Democracy for the People Act. It will: 

You can read more about our bill here. 

Investing in Higher Education

Last week, our House DFL Majority began taking up its budget bills that, in total, will make transformational changes to empower Minnesotans, create greater economic security for families, and build a stronger future for all of us. First up, a higher education bill that recognizes every Minnesotan deserves a higher education system that is affordable, accessible, and prepares them for the workforce of tomorrow.

This is the best higher ed bill since a DFL Trifecta froze tuition in 2013, because when Democrats are in charge, we invest in education.

Our budget funds the unique needs of colleges and universities throughout the state including a two-year tuition freeze at Minnesota State, safety and security improvements at the U of M, funding for increased medical providers in rural areas through the Mayo Clinic Medical School, and investments in our three tribal colleges.

We're just getting started!

Our Outdoor Heritage, Clean Water, Arts, and Culture

In 2008, Minnesota’s voters passed the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment because all of us want our state to be a great place to live, work, and play. We passed our Legacy Budget investing over $820 million to continue the work of restoring, enhancing, and protecting Minnesota’s most treasure spaces and places, increasing access for everyone. 

This is another fantastic bill, and one that wouldn’t be possible without the DFL Trifecta. It’s investments include the following:

These are just the starting point when it comes to the investments we’re proposing for Minnesotans, and I’m looking forward to talking about this week's bills we’ll be passing off the House Floor. 

If you have any questions about our proposal, please feel free to reach out with your questions and comments. 

In partnership, 

Michael Howard